KENILWORTH, N.J., March 28 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Schering-Plough Corporation today announced that prescription-strength MiraLAX(R) (polyethylene glycol 3350) is now available as an over-the-counter (OTC) treatment for occasional constipation. The innovative formula of MiraLAX works with the body to increase the frequency of bowel movements without causing the side effects of cramps and gas. MiraLAX allows a comfortable, easy and complete bowel movement. MiraLAX has a strong safety profile and is not known to be habit forming.
“Laxatives that work gently with the body are preferred because people can live their lives normally. Some other laxatives may cause uncomfortable cramps. MiraLAX is a welcome alternative. It offers effective constipation relief, allowing the patient to regain control,” said Jack A. DiPalma, M.D., immediate past president of the American College of Gastroenterology and director of the division of gastroenterology at University of South Alabama College of Medicine.
MiraLAX is the first Rx-to-OTC switch in the laxative category in 30 years. Nearly 70 percent of constipated consumers who tried MiraLAX preferred it versus their usual laxative.(1) MiraLAX brings the body back to its natural rhythm by using the body’s own water to gently increase the frequency of bowel movements and to soften the stool so it is easier to pass. MiraLAX is taken once daily and comes in a powder form which dissolves completely in any common beverage (coffee, tea, juice, soda)
Constipation is a common gastrointestinal complaint, affecting more than 65 million Americans.(2) Constipation can stem from lifestyle causes such as diet and inadequate fluid intake; physical inactivity; stress or anxiety; and medical conditions such as pregnancy, diabetes or hypothyroidism.(3) Constipation can also be caused or exacerbated by narcotic analgesics, antacids, anti-cholinergics or iron supplements. On average, more than twice as many women as men suffer from constipation.(2)
“MiraLAX is the latest in a line of successful prescription-to-OTC switches by Schering-Plough,” said Stan Barshay, chairman of Schering-Plough HealthCare Products. “We are pleased to bring the benefits of MiraLAX, a proven medication, to the millions of Americans suffering from constipation.”
MiraLAX, which is marketed by Schering-Plough Corporation through an exclusive licensing agreement with Braintree Laboratories, Inc., was the number one prescribed laxative formula. MiraLAX is available nationally at drug stores, grocery stores, mass merchandisers and club stores.
Schering-Plough’s portfolio of switched products includes CORICIDIN(R), AFRIN(R), TINACTIN(R), LOTRIMIN(R), DRIXORAL(R) and, most recently, the switch of CLARITIN(R) 24-hour, non-drowsy allergy products, which has surpassed the $1.5 billion mark in cumulative U.S. OTC sales since launch.
About Schering-Plough Health Care Products
Schering-Plough Health Care Products is the U.S. over-the-counter (OTC) and consumer products business unit of Schering-Plough Corporation a global science-based health care company with leading prescription, consumer and animal health products. Through internal research and collaborations with partners, Schering-Plough discovers, develops, manufactures and markets advanced drug therapies to meet important medical needs. Schering-Plough’s vision is to earn the trust of the physicians, patients and customers served by approximately 33,500 people around the world. The company is based in Kenilworth, N.J., and its Web site is www.schering-plough.com.
SCHERING-PLOUGH DISCLOSURE NOTICE: The information in this press release includes certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements relating to the potential market for MiraLAX. Forward-looking statements relate to expectations or forecasts of future events. Schering-Plough does not assume the obligation to update any forward-looking statement. Many factors could cause actual results to differ materially from Schering-Plough’s forward-looking statements, including market forces, economic factors, product availability, patent and other intellectual property protection, current and future branded, generic or over-the-counter competition, the regulatory process, and any developments following regulatory approval, among other uncertainties. For further details about these and other factors that may impact the forward-looking statements, see Schering-Plough’s Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including Part I Item 1A. Risk Factors listed in the Company’s 2006 10-K.
References (1) Stoltz, et al. An efficacy and consumer preference study of polyethylene glycol 3350 for the treatment of constipation in regular laxative users. Home Health Care Consultant. 2001; Vol. 8, No. 2., p. 4 (2) Higgins, Peter D.R., & Johanson, John F. Epidemiology of constipation in North America: a systematic review. American Journal of Gastroenterology. 2004; 99, 750-759. (3) DeLillo A.R. & Rose, S. Functional bowel disorders in the geriatric patient: constipation, fecal impaction and fecal incontinence. American Journal of Gastroenterology. 2000; 95, 901-905.
Schering-Plough Corporation
CONTACT: Media Contact - Julie Lux, +1-908-298-4774, +1-908-216-0370(cell); or Investor Contacts - Alex Kelly, +1-908-298-7436, both forSchering- Plough Corporation
Web site: http://www.schering-plough.com/
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